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Bruce to raid Eagles for Mullins

By Philip Seery

STEVE BRUCE is reportedly lining up a £2.2 million bid for Crystal Palace midfielder Hayden Mullins as he looks to strengthen his squad before the August 31 deadline.

The 23-year-old Mullins played under Birmingham coach Bruce at The Eagles and could be set to join old team-mates Clinton Morrison and Jovan Kirovski at St Andrews.

Midlands rivals Aston Villa were also interested in Mullins but Bruce is favourite to snap up the attacking&nbsp;midfielder.

Birmingham felt the full force of champions&nbsp;Arsenal on Sunday in a 2-0 defeat&nbsp;and while the team were solid The Blues look toothless as an attacking force and will hope Mullins can offer&nbsp;a different option.

Palace will be keen to hang onto&nbsp;their midfield dynamo but the lure of&nbsp;The Premiership and a reunion with Bruce could prove too enticing for Mullins.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;